Cheesy Chicken & Rice Casserole That Fixes Busy Weeknights

 

Ever find yourself staring blankly into the fridge on a weeknight, wondering what to make? This Cheesy Chicken & Rice Casserole is your answer! It’s a comforting, flavorful dish that comes together quickly, using simple ingredients you probably already have. Inspired by classic home-style cooking, this casserole is perfect for busy families or anyone craving a warm, satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Chicken & Rice Casserole

• Ready in under an hour, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Uses simple, budget-friendly ingredients.
• A comforting and satisfying meal for the whole family.
• Easy to customize with your favorite veggies and cheeses.
• Makes great leftovers for lunch the next day.
• A delicious way to use leftover cooked chicken.
• Minimal cleanup compared to more elaborate dinners.
• The aroma of cheesy goodness fills the kitchen, making everyone hungry!

Ingredients Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting casserole. Don’t be afraid to adjust the ingredients to your liking!

• 1 1/2 cups (approximately 300g) cooked chicken, shredded. Opt for pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time!
• 1 cup (approximately 185g) cooked rice. White or brown rice both work well.
• 1 can (10.75 ounces or 305g) condensed cream of chicken soup. For a richer flavor, try using a homemade cream sauce.
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk. Any kind of milk works – dairy or non-dairy.
• 1/2 cup (120g) sour cream. Greek yogurt is a healthy substitute.
• 1 cup (approximately 115g) shredded cheddar cheese, divided. Use a sharp cheddar for a bolder taste.
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for a fresh, mild onion flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, to season the casserole.
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, for a hint of savory garlic flavor.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, for sautéing the vegetables.
• 1/2 cup chopped celery, adding a refreshing crunch.
• 1/2 cup chopped carrots, providing sweetness and color.

Spice Tip: Lightly toast your garlic powder in a dry pan for a few seconds to bring out its aroma.

Essential Equipment List

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 9×13 inch baking dish: Essential for baking the casserole evenly.
• Large bowl: For mixing all the ingredients together.
• Skillet: To sauté the celery and carrots until tender.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensuring accurate ingredient measurements.

Optional: A good vegetable chopper can speed up prep time considerably.

Recipe Details

• • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes

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• Servings: 6
• Difficulty: Easy

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps for a perfect Cheesy Chicken & Rice Casserole every time!

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Combine Main Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, 1/2 cup of the cheddar cheese, green onions, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add celery and carrots and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

Step 4: Mix Vegetables into Casserole

Add the softened vegetables to the chicken and rice mixture and stir to combine. This adds texture and flavor to the casserole.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the top, ensuring every bite gets a cheesy crust.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The cheese should be golden brown and inviting.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly and prevents it from being too runny.

Pro Tip: If the cheese starts to brown too quickly, cover the dish loosely with foil during the last few minutes of baking.

Tips for Success

• Prevent a dry casserole: Ensure you have enough liquid. Add a splash more milk if the mixture seems too thick before baking.
• Even baking: Rotate the casserole halfway through baking to ensure even browning.
• Cheese consistency: For a smoother cheese melt, use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded.
• Flavor boost: Add a pinch of smoked paprika to the cheese topping for a smoky flavor.
• Veggie prep: Save time by using pre-chopped vegetables from the grocery store.

Variations & Substitutions

• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture.
• Different cheese: Try using a blend of mozzarella and provolone for a different flavor profile.
• Creamy sauce: Substitute the condensed soup with a homemade cheese sauce.
• Add more veggies: Mix in broccoli florets, peas, or corn for added nutrients and texture.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and ensure your rice is gluten-free certified.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Cheesy Chicken & Rice Casserole

This Cheesy Chicken & Rice Casserole pairs well with:

• A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette.
• Steamed green beans or roasted asparagus.
• Garlic bread or crusty rolls for soaking up the cheesy sauce.
• A refreshing glass of lemonade or iced tea.

Health Benefits

This casserole provides a good balance of nutrients, including protein from the chicken, carbohydrates from the rice, and vitamins from the vegetables. Cheddar cheese is a good source of calcium. Plus, it’s comfort food that nourishes the soul!

Storage & Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for faster reheating.
• Freezing: Freeze individual portions of the casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Avoid Soggy Results?

Ensure your cooked rice isn’t overly wet before adding it to the casserole. Also, don’t overbake the casserole, as this can cause the sauce to become watery.

Can I Use Different Vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.

Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

What If I Don’t Have Cream of Chicken Soup?

You can make a simple cream sauce using butter, flour, milk, and chicken broth as a substitute.

Can I Add Breadcrumbs on Top?

Yes, a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top of the cheese adds a nice crunchy texture. Toss the breadcrumbs with melted butter before sprinkling.

Nutritional Information

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Total Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Cholesterol: 100mg
• Sodium: 600mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 30g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 30g

Disclaimer: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

More Delicious Dishes to Explore

Craving more comforting casserole recipes? Check out these delicious options:

• One-Pan Wild Rice and Cheesy Broccoli Casserole – A vegetarian delight packed with flavor and nutrients.
• Easy Cabbage Casserole – A hearty and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in.
• Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Casserole – A flavorful and crowd-pleasing twist on a classic Mexican dish.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Chicken & Rice Casserole is a fast, flavorful, and comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Whip it up tonight and tag us with your masterpiece! Share this recipe with your friends and family who would love it! Join our vibrant community on Facebook and Pinterest for daily recipe inspiration, cooking tips, and more tasty ideas! Happy cooking!